My name is Marguerite Umutesi, a CorpsAfrica Volunteer serving in Musanze District, Kinigi Sector, Nyonirima Cell, Kanyampereri Village. My journey as a volunteer has been filled with meaningful encounters and learning experiences that continue to shape how I view community development. This week, two moments stood out for me: one showed the power of human connection and belonging, and the other reflected empowerment through skills.
An unforgettable moment came when I spent time with my host mother on her land. We were putting manure into the soil and preparing it for planting. Everyone who saw us working together laughed and said I looked like her daughter, and honestly, it felt true.
This simple act of working side by side wasn’t just about cultivating; it was about belonging. Living and serving in the community has taught me that relationships are the heart of meaningful service. My host mother has become not only a guardian but also a friend, teacher, and inspiration. Through her, I’ve learned the strength of unity and the joy of being accepted as part of a new family.
I also spent time with a woman from the community who is passionate about improving her knitting skills. Together, we practiced using the knitting machine, learning how to manage threads and create patterns. The most beautiful part of this experience was seeing her confidence grow as she realized she could master the skill. It reminded me that real empowerment starts with patience, encouragement, and sharing knowledge in simple ways that meet people where they are.
Through this interaction, I understood that development doesn’t always come from big projects. Sometimes, it begins with listening, guiding, and helping one person at a time to discover their potential.
These two experiences, teaching and learning, reminded me why I chose to serve. Whether through empowering someone with a skill or bringing laughter to the land, each moment carries a lesson about humanity, growth, and love.
Being a CorpsAfrica Volunteer has shown me that real impact is built through connection, compassion, and collaboration, one story, one person, and one smile at a time.